Double Dragon

"Double Dragon" is a beat-'em-up video game from 1987 that was developed by Technōs Japan and distributed by Taito for arcades in Asia, North America, and Europe. It is the first title in the "Double Dragon" series. The player character has a repertoire of martial arts techniques that can be performed individually or in combination using the joystick and three action buttons (kick, jump, and punch). The moves range from simple punches and kicks to more sophisticated maneuvers such as hair-pulling holds and elbow strikes. When playing with another player, you can assist your partner by grabbing their opponent from behind. However, caution is advised, as some opponents can do the same to the players. The player starts the game with a certain number of extra lives and a health bar that decreases whenever the player takes a hit. If the health bar is empty or the time limit expires, the player loses a life. Throughout the game, the player encounters a small selection of enemy characters. Certain enemies carry melee weapons that can be knocked out of their hands and then picked up to use against them. Available weapons include baseball bats, whips, throwing knives, and dynamite; in addition, rocks, oil drums, and crates can be found at certain locations. The game is divided into four levels, or “missions,” consisting of a city neighborhood, a factory, the forest, and the gang’s hideout. Normally, the game ends when a single player defeats the final boss alone. However, if two players complete the game together, they must fight each other to decide who will win Marian’s affection.